How to Use Cheap Single Stage Paint on Used Cars

The expenses of painting a car can quickly add up into the hundreds or even thousands, depending on the exact type of paint and work being done. Three stage paint is the most expensive type of paint and includes several steps of painting, which can take a lot of time and skill. Single stage paint is just that, one step of painting, besides the preparation, and the paint job is finished. Using cheap single stage paint on a used car is the cheapest way to get a new paint job.

Things You'll Need

• 400 grit sandpaper
• Wax and grease remover
• Towel
• Masking paper and tape
• Spray can primer
• Single stage paint

Instructions

1. Sand the entire car with 400 grit sandpaper to remove the top layer of paint or clear coat already on the car. The new paint won't adhere to the smooth surface of the old paint. Sand until the car looks dull and all of the glossy paint has been sanded.

2. Place masking tape and paper on every area of the car that won't be painted. Cover the glass on the windows and windshield, mirrors, door handles, key holes, trim, tires, wheels and lights. Wipe the car's surface with wax and grease remover and then wipe with a towel to remove any fingerprints or wax residue that can harm the dried finish of the new paint.

3. Apply spray can primer to the surface, holding the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface and making the strokes left to right, not up and down. Use one coat, just enough to get an even coat on the car's surface and to cover up the old surface. Let the primer dry for 30 minutes.

4. Spray 3 thin coats of the single stage paint onto the car's surface, using the same spraying techniques used with the primer. Let each coat dry for 5 minutes before spraying the next one. Keep the coats thin so the paint doesn't run, but make sure the paint covers the last coat. Let the final coat dry for 4 to 5 hours before handling the surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Never spray paint inside a closed building without proper ventilation.